Oregon’s newest scenic bikeway traverses the strikingly scenic high desert canyon of north Central Oregon, known as River Canyon Country.
Simply said, the new Sherar’s Falls Scenic Bikeway is one of the best, rural, accessible road cycling loops available in Oregon. You’ll be stopping for one “awe moment” after another
Start in Maupin, on the banks of the Lower Deschutes River. Cross the historic 1929 bridge, ride through the heart of downtown Maupin and finish your three-mile climb with your first of many Mt. Hood views. Ride across Juniper Flat, a lava flow that came from the High Cascades six to 10 million years ago. See today’s dry-land wheat farming and beef cattle herds as well as the bygone era’s homestead cabins and windmills. Sagebrush and juniper offer you pungent smells while you hear the plentiful population of the Western Meadowlark singing their state song.
Exiting Juniper Flat on the north end, descend into the Tygh Valley. Historically, the Tygh people settled here. The White River flows off of Mt. Hood’s White River glacier on its 50-mile trip through the Tygh Valley to the Deschutes. Tygh Valley Road takes you through shady oak trees, along the White River’s banks with grey squirrels and wild turkeys drinking from its crystal waters.
Turn east and head down the valley toward the Deschutes River through hay fields where mule deer, rabbits and antelope play. White River Falls State Park, at mile 21.5, offers views of some very impressive waterfalls.
Coast down Chicken Spring Canyon and WOW..You have arrived at the majestic Sherar’s Falls on the mighty Deschutes River. Named for Joesph Sherar, a 19th-Century wagon road builder, the falls is a Native American fishing ground, still used today. Look for the wood fishing platforms and the three petroglyphs. Cross the river and turn your bike back south. The remaining nine miles back to Maupin are right along the river. Hear the roar of the rapids, listen to the silence of the flat water, watch an osprey or river otter dive for fish, count numerous blue herons, spy the green springs on the desert hillsides.
Finish the 33.5 miles on the riverbank where you parked your car and continue to let the nature of Sherar’s Falls Scenic Bikeway soak into your soul.
The small vibrant town of Maupin serves as the bikeway’s start and finish, offering ideal pre- and post-ride amenities – a walkable downtown, friendly locals, restaurants, lodging and camping. The ride is best enjoyed in spring and fall and even on some winter days.
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More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
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The Great Escape to Maupin, Oregon
Here’s something special about a river town in summer. The warm-season brims with a heady mix of possibility and memories. The days melt into a haze, merging with the nostalgia of moments past: the sweet scent of barbeque, warm grass and cascading clouds, long days, and youthful nights. The river's surface breaks with the occasional ripple of fish, and days blush into beginning. Maupin, Oregon, with a tiny population of just 450, is mighty in spirit and its love for the water. In Maupin, you’ll find history flirting with ever-present nature, and small-town charm for days. Make this a summer to remember by chasing trails, waterfalls, and rivers in this epic spot along the Deschutes. Ready to plan your great escape? Let’s get to it.
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Central Oregon Mountain Biking Trails
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Great Getaway: Sisters, Oregon
When pulling into Sisters from the West you’re greeted by a main-street cowboy town filled with local shops, western storefronts and lots of charm. But as you reach the far end of that main street (it’s actually U.S. Hwy. 20,) something different emerges. There’s some upscale lodging, a brewpub, movie theater, and spa that gives Sisters a whole new attitude.
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Newberry Crater: Ancient Attraction is an Activity Hub
It’s hard to believe, but 25 years ago, the volcanic features that make up Newberry National Volcanic Monument weren’t protected. If it wasn’t for a group of concerned Central Oregonians, the monument wouldn’t exist. “In the late 80s, at the time, the collaborative process we see today for land-use planning just wasn’t as common.
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Central Oregon Mountain Bike Trail Guide
The Central Oregon mountain bike scene is 300 miles of diverse singletrack through high alpine forests and sagebrush dotted deserts from Madras to La Pine, Sisters to Prineville. Bulletin newspaper reporter Mark Morical has ridden just about every one of the trails you’ll find on any mountain bike trail map – and he’s written about his experience.
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Casual Family Weekend in Sunriver
Imagine this: you’re riding your bike through a rolling meadow, the Cascade mountain range in the background, and the only sound is from the whir of a prop plane taking off against a crisp blue sky. Up ahead, your children pull carrots from their pockets and present them to a gathering of friendly horses in an adjacent pasture.
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Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: Pull Off For a Central Oregon Adventure
The Cascade Lakes Scenic byway is one of the prettiest drives in the U.S. But it might be the most recreationally rich road you’ll ever drive too. From Bend southwest to the Highway 58 junction, the Oregon Route 372 cuts through 66 miles unique volcanic formations and geological beauty that offers everything that makes Central Oregon an outdoor lover’s paradise.
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Scenic Bikeways Showcase Central Oregon’s Backroad Beauty
Oregon’s official scenic bikeways are the first of their kind in the U.S – and Central Oregon is home to 6 of the state’s 11 most beautiful bike routes. An absolute summer must for road cyclists are riding the best of the best – our scenic bikeways. Every rider can find a ride to suit their style and mood, from family-friendly to adventurous.
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The Central Oregon Adventure 6-Pack
6 ADVENTURES…1 DAY….A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES. “You should do it,” they said. “Think about how cool it’d be,” they told me. “You get to do it during the work day, ya know,” they reminded me. So I said yes.